Electrochemical Gradients

by Greg Crowther

Two gradients based on charge and concentration.
Two gradients telling all the ions where to go.
Two gradients in agreement or in opposition.
Two gradients: electrical and chemical! (Sodium in and potassium out.)
Electrical and chemical! (Sodium in and potassium out.)
Electrical and chemical! (Sodium in and potassium out.)
Electrical and chemical! (Sodium in and potassium out.)

When ion channels open, why do sodium ions come INTO cells, while potassium ions go OUT? These movements are governed by electrochemical gradients, reflecting differences in both electrical charge and concentration between the inside and the outside of the cell membrane.

• sheet music (with melody play-back)